Flagler Beach Ocean Rescue and Flagler Beach Fire Departments saved a deer at Flagler Beach. After the rescue, the deer was released in the woods.

Chase Hunter, a senior lifeguard with Flagler Beach Ocean Rescue, said he initially didn't think a deer was floating out in the waves. Ocean Rescue and the Flagler Beach Fire Department were responding to a call of a deer spotted in the water on the south end of the beach July 6.

The BriefLifeguards in Flagler Beach rescued a distressed deer caught in rough surf on Sunday.The animal was safely returned to land despite dangerous waves and shark sightings.Fire rescue officials called it a first in local history — and a testament to the team's commitment.